Booking Your Gorilla Trek: Choosing the Right Tour Operator

A common question I get is: Who did I book this experience through? There are many tour operators in East Africa offering similar packages. You typically work with them to customize your trip—choosing destinations, safari parks, and accommodation levels (basic, moderate, or luxury).

After researching multiple companies, I chose Monkey Adventures, an East Africa-based operator headquartered in Arusha, Tanzania. They organize trips across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.

Why Monkey Adventures?

• Local Expertise: Our Kenya leg was planned by a Kenyan advisor, while Uganda was handled by a Ugandan specialist.
• Seamless Coordination: The tour planner handled everything—accommodations, guides, and logistics.
• Exceptional Service.

Gorilla O’Clock, which I highly recommend for Uganda trips. If you’d like his contact info, feel free to reach out!

Understanding the Costs of Gorilla Trekking

Gorilla trekking is an exclusive and expensive experience—but worth every penny. Here’s why:

Permit Costs

• Uganda: $700 per person (price fluctuates; peak seasons like July/August may cost more).
• Rwanda: $1,500 per person (more expensive but offers easier treks and historical ties to Dian Fossey’s work).

Why So Expensive?

• Exclusivity: Only 19 habituated gorilla families in Bwindi, with a max of 8 visitors per family per day (152 permits daily).

• Conservation Funding: Permit fees directly support park maintenance & Vet care for gorillas, anti-poaching efforts, and local communities.

Additional Expenses

• Porters: ~$15 to carry gear (optional but helpful).
• Tips: For guides, trackers, and drivers (a crucial courtesy).
• Accommodation: Ranges from budget lodges to luxury stays.

Uganda vs. Rwanda: Which Should You Choose?

Uganda (Bwindi Impenetrable Forest)

Best for adventurers

✅ Pros:

• More affordable permits (700 vs.Rwanda’s 700 Vs.Rwanda’s 1,500).
• Diverse terrain (challenging but rewarding treks).
• Less crowded (especially outside peak seasons).

❌ Cons:

• Longer hikes (Rahija’s trek was strenuous).

Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park)

✅ Pros:

• Trekking Difficulty: Rwanda’s treks are generally easier, as the gorilla families are often closer to the starting points. Uganda’s treks can be more challenging, especially in Bwindi’s dense forest.
• Historical Significance: Rwanda is the birthplace of gorilla trekking, with strong ties to Dian Fossey and her groundbreaking research. The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund and a new visitor center sponsored by Ellen DeGeneres are located here.

❌ Cons:

• Higher permit costs.
• Stricter  protocols 

My Pick? Uganda for adventure, Rwanda for convenience.

I chose Uganda for affordability and accessibility, but I’d love to experience Rwanda next!

5 Must-Know Tips Before You Go

1. Book Early – Permits sell out 6+ months ahead for peak seasons (June–Aug).
2. Train Like a Hiker – Even “easy” treks involve mud, steep slopes, and altitude.
3. Pack Like a Pro – My essentials:
   • Waterproof boots (trust me, you’ll thank me)
   • Gardening gloves (against stinging nettles)
   • Zip-lock bags (to protect phones from rain)
4. Tip Generously – Tips, porters, and souvenirs add up.These jobs support local families.
5. Put Your Camera Down – That hour flies; soak it in!Spend less time behind your camera, more time being present

Respect the Rules: Wear masks (to protect gorillas from human diseases) and follow guide instructions.

Final Advice For Future Trekkers

Standing in that jungle, watching a mother gorilla cradle her baby just like humans do…it changed me. In that moment, all the muddy shoes, expensive permits and long flights didn’t matter. What mattered was being part of something bigger – helping ensure these magnificent creatures are still here for generations to come.

If you’re on the fence about going, take this as your sign. Just book it. That hour with the gorillas will stay with you forever.

Tips for Your Gorilla Trekking Adventure

1. Budget Wisely: In addition to the permit fee, budget for tips for your guide, trackers, and porters. Tipping is an important courtesy and greatly appreciated by the local staff.
2. Choose the Right Tour Operator: I highly recommend Monkey Adventures and Gorilla O’Clock for their professionalism and personalized service.
3. Pack Appropriately: Wear sturdy hiking boots, long sleeves, and pants to protect against the forest’s dense vegetation. Don’t forget a rain jacket, as the weather can be unpredictable.
4. Respect the Gorillas: Follow your guide’s instructions at all times to ensure a safe and respectful encounter with the gorillas.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda was one of the most magical experiences of my life. From the challenging yet rewarding treks to the heartwarming interactions with the gorillas, every moment was unforgettable. If you’re considering this adventure, I hope this guide has provided valuable insights and inspiration to help you plan your dream trip.

Would I Do It Again?

Absolutely! I’m already dreaming of returning to explore the other two checkpoints in Bwindi. This experience was life-changing—a perfect blend of adventure, conservation, and raw connection with nature.

If you’re considering gorilla trekking, don’t hesitate. It’s worth every dollar, every muddy step, and every moment spent in the presence of these majestic creatures.

Have questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out—I’d love to help you plan your own unforgettable gorilla trekking adventure!